Acts of Faith: Understanding Abraham’s Journey and the Call of God

Explore the acts of faith demonstrated by Abraham, the reasons for his divine calling, and ways Christians can express their faith in God.

Acts of Faith Demonstrated by Abraham

Abraham is often regarded as a model of faith in various religious traditions, and his life is marked by several significant acts of faith:

1. Obedience to God’s Command: Abraham demonstrated his faith by obeying God when instructed to leave his homeland and move to an unknown land (Genesis 12:1). This act required immense trust in God’s plan.
2. Willingness to Sacrifice Isaac: He showed profound faith when he was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac as a demonstration of obedience to God (Genesis 22:1-2). This act symbolizes ultimate trust in God’s promises.
3. Belief in God’s Promise: Despite his old age and Sarah’s barrenness, Abraham believed God’s promise that he would have a son (Genesis 15:4-5). His faith was credited to him as righteousness.
4. Building Altars: Abraham built two altars at Bethel and Shechem as acts of worship and acknowledgment of God’s presence in his life (Genesis 12:7-8). This signifies his commitment and dedication to God.
5. Circumcision of Males: He obeyed God’s instruction to circumcise all males in his household as a sign of the covenant (Genesis 17:10-14). This act demonstrated his adherence to God’s commands.
6. Faith in God’s Greatness: Abraham had total faith in God’s greatness and loyalty. He trusted in God’s character and promises, which guided his decisions and actions.
7. Offering Sacrifices: He offered sacrifices to God in Canaan, which was a practice of worship that reflected his gratitude and reverence (Genesis 12:7).
8. Acceptance of New Names: Abraham accepted the change of his name (from Abram to Abraham) and that of his wife (from Sarai to Sarah), representing a new identity tied to God’s covenant (Genesis 17:5, 17:15).
9. Covenant Relationship: He entered into a covenant relationship with God, which was foundational for his faith and the establishment of God’s people (Genesis 17:2).
10. Abandonment of Idol Worship: Abraham abandoned the worship of many gods and committed himself to the worship of the one true God, demonstrating his faith in God’s uniqueness and sovereignty.

Reasons Why God Called Abraham

God called Abraham for several significant reasons:

1. Separation from Idol Worship: To separate Abraham from idol worshipping prevalent in his surroundings and to set him apart for a divine purpose.
2. Founder of a Great Nation: God intended for Abraham to be the founder of a great nation, which would later become the Israelites.
3. New Plan of Salvation: He wanted to establish a new plan of salvation that would ultimately benefit all humanity through Abraham’s lineage.
4. Teaching Faith: God sought to teach the people the meaning of faith through Abraham’s life and actions.
5. Man of Faith: Abraham was chosen because he exemplified faith and obedience, making him a fitting candidate for God’s purposes.
6. New Beginning: His calling marked a new beginning in God’s plan to rescue mankind from sin.
7. Creation of a Holy Nation: God desired to create a holy nation through Abraham, setting a standard for holiness and worship.
8. Covenantal Relationship: To establish a covenant with Abraham that would bind him and his descendants to God.
9. Promised Land: God called Abraham to give his descendants the promised land, ensuring a place for his chosen people.
10. Worship and Revelation: God wanted Abraham to worship Him alone and to reveal Himself in a more personal way.
11. Blessing with a Son: God aimed to bless Abraham with a son, which was a significant aspect of His covenant promise.

Ways Christians Can Show Faith in God

Christians can demonstrate their faith in God through various actions and behaviors:

1. Worship of One God: Engaging in worship and acknowledging the sovereignty of one true God.
2. Speaking the Truth: Upholding honesty and integrity in their words and actions.
3. Helping the Needy: Actively assisting those who are needy, sick, or marginalized, reflecting God’s love and compassion.
4. Doing God’s Work Well: Committing to excellence in their tasks as a form of service to God.
5. Obeying Commandments: Adhering to God’s commandments as evidence of their commitment to His will.
6. Being Honest and Upright: Living a life characterized by honesty, integrity, and moral uprightness as a testament to their faith in God.